The Art of Living Longer- The Science of Learning!

Many seniors believe that they can’t really learn new things… a new language, a new habit or some hobby or game. This thought stops them from challenging themselves cognitively and in ways that will actually result in a better life experience. Overcoming obstacles, learning new things and continuing to grow and expand are hallmarks of the consciously aging senior. But what can be done about this pervasive idea that the aging brain has some kind of diminished power? You may be surprised to know that the science of Neuroplasticity debunks the idea that seniors can’t learn new things.

Neuroplasticity is the science that has proven that the brain is malleable, and can be affected by thought & blood flow. It teaches us that, when challenged, the brain changes itself to meet new demands. Nerve cells, called neurons, in our brains physically grow nerve endings to connect with other neurons when we learn new things! The more we experience and learn, the more connections are formed. And we know that any intervention that successfully prevents or slows decline will have positive effects, not only cognitively, but also in better gait and balance.1 as well as better overall mood and quality of life.

Noted motivational speaker Tony Robbins famously said, “When you stop growing, you start dying.” Learning is part of growing and is an essential component to healthy aging. So what’s the best way to learn something new? The keys are increasing blood flow and repetition. So take a walk, do some chair exercises… anything that will get your heart pumping just a bit faster than at rest.

When it comes to practicing something new, think back to when you first learned to drive a car. Did you know how to drive the SECOND time you got behind the wheel? Of course not, it took practice and lots of it before you were a really good driver. And it’s no different now with anything else you want to learn. You need practice to master a new skill – at any age.

Be a Savvy Senior. Tackle something new! First elevate blood flow and then start learning and then do it again. And again. And again! Repetition is the cement that holds those new memories in place.

Anne Goldberg, The Savvy Senior, is a Motivational Speaker for Seniors with a mission to help them know they are old enough to have a past and young enough to have a future, guiding them to a long, healthy life imbued with meaning and purpose. Her vision is to create an army of senior volunteers bringing their wisdom and experience back to the community. She helps seniors live into their future with vitality by teaching them how to use computers; with her original lecture & conference series, The Art of Living Longer; with decluttering & organizing; and with “Tell Your Story Videos”, preserving the stories & wisdom of your life for future generations. www.SavvySeniorServices.com
(954) 536-8008

For those who don’t know, a snowbird is someone who lives in a cold, northern climate but flies south for some or all of...

- Advertisement -

Seniors Lifestyle Magazine is a hub of news, information, and resources for all of us reaching our 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 100s, and those with aging parents and loved ones to care for. Baby Boomers are becoming the largest demographic and their needs are increasing. We must keep up to date with the ever changing landscape of health care, social programs, and services the cater to our specific needs.